KIMT NEWS 3 — The diversity in the United States is constantly growing and in our area some populations are growing faster than the national average. That plays a role in electing our nation’s leaders.

Those at the YMCA in Austin see all kinds of people, from different ages to genders and even a variety of cultures.

“I can tell that change has happened and is continuing to occur here with respect to more and more people coming in from outside of our community and outside of our country,” said Tedd Maxfield, Executive Director of the YMCA in Austin.

They want to make the Y a welcoming place for everyone, including the influx of kids they see during the summer and they want to make sure the entire family gets involved.

“We’re doing more with guest passes and family events. We’re also, with respect to Latinos, we have translated most of our program materials into Spanish. We haven’t addressed some of the other languages yet, but we’re working where we can and where it’s most effective,” Maxfield said.

The change in diversity is spreading beyond the Austin city limits.

Newly-released data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows the population for minorities is growing faster in Minnesota than the national average and it is changing the political landscape.

“What you’re looking at is even if the Democrats don’t pass the laws, if they’re talking about, well we’re in favor of them and the Republicans aren’t because of they’re mean, or they’re racist, or they’re homophobic or however you want to put that term in there. That can gain them points at the ballot box as well just on that perception,” said Political Analyst, Dr. Eric Shoars.

While the number of Hispanics is growing faster in Iowa compared to their overall population, Asians are the fastest growing group in both Iowa and Minnesota.

No matter what kind of transition is taking place, you can count on the change to continue and political analysts say it is something politicians have to keep in mind.

“If the Republicans don’t get on message to the American people, regardless if it’s majority or minority populations, they’re going to lose for decades to come, they will be a permanent minority party,” Shoars said.

Minnesota’s state demographer said the large increase in the Asian population is due to mothers giving birth who are already in the state. There are also waves of immigrants coming to the area for high-tech jobs.